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The 1879-S Morgan Silver Dollar, graded MS64 by NGC, is a stunning example of one of the most sought-after coins in the Morgan Dollar series. Struck at the San Francisco Mint, this coin was part of a larger mintage produced in the late 19th century, during an era of significant economic expansion and the discovery of vast silver deposits in the American West. The Morgan Dollar itself, first introduced in 1878, became a cornerstone of U.S. coinage and remains one of the most iconic series in American numismatics. The “S” mintmark on this coin denotes its production in San Francisco, a mint known for producing high-quality coins during this period.
The Morgan Dollar was designed by George T. Morgan, a skilled engraver at the U.S. Mint. His design features the bust of Lady Liberty on the obverse, wearing a coronet inscribed with the word “LIBERTY.” Surrounding her are thirteen stars, representing the original thirteen colonies of the United States. The reverse of the coin depicts a majestic eagle with outstretched wings, clutching an olive branch in one talon and arrows in the other, symbolizing peace and the readiness to defend the nation. Above the eagle are the words “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA,” with “E PLURIBUS UNUM” inscribed on a banner below, signifying the union of the states. The denomination of “ONE DOLLAR” is prominently displayed, further highlighting the coin’s purpose as legal tender for everyday transactions.
The 1879-S Morgan Silver Dollar was minted in large quantities, with over 9 million examples produced during that year, making it one of the more common dates in the Morgan Dollar series. However, due to the heavy circulation of these coins and their subsequent wear, high-grade examples are relatively rare. The 1879-S Morgan Dollar in MS64 condition is an exceptional coin that stands out due to its sharp details, excellent strike, and high-quality preservation. It is one of the finer examples of this issue available to collectors, and its beauty is further enhanced by the toning that has developed over the years.
The toning on this particular coin, identified as “Toning (A),” adds to its visual appeal. Toning occurs when the surface of a coin reacts with the atmosphere, causing the coin to develop a layer of color. This can range from subtle hues to vibrant rainbow colors, depending on the conditions the coin has been exposed to over time. The 1879-S Morgan Silver Dollar MS64 in Toning (A) features beautiful color that enhances the coin’s overall aesthetic, giving it a unique and distinctive appearance. Many collectors find toning desirable as it reflects the history and journey of the coin through time, adding a personal touch that cannot be replicated.
The San Francisco Mint, where the 1879-S Morgan Dollar was struck, played a critical role in the history of U.S. coinage. As one of the most prominent mints in the country, it was responsible for producing a large number of coins for circulation, including the Morgan Dollar series. The minting process at San Francisco was known for its attention to detail and the high-quality strikes produced. Despite the large mintage of the 1879-S, finding well-preserved examples, particularly in MS64 grade, is rare. The high-grade condition of this coin speaks to the quality of the San Francisco Mint’s operations during the late 1800s.
The 1879-S Morgan Silver Dollar is not only a beautiful example of U.S. coinage, but it is also an important historical artifact. The coin was produced during a time of economic change in the United States, marked by the discovery of rich silver deposits, such as the Comstock Lode in Nevada. This boom in silver production led to the passage of the Bland-Allison Act of 1878, which required the U.S. Treasury to purchase large quantities of silver to be minted into coins. As a result, the Morgan Dollar series was born, with its first coins being struck in 1878. The 1879-S, with its rich history and stunning design, encapsulates this important era in American numismatic history.
The 1879-S Morgan Dollar in MS64 condition is a remarkable example of coin collecting at its finest. The MS64 grade indicates that the coin is in near-mint condition, with only minor imperfections that do not detract from its overall beauty. These imperfections are typically light contact marks or surface hairlines, which are not uncommon in coins of this age. However, the details on this coin are exceptionally sharp, and the strike is strong, which is characteristic of coins produced at the San Francisco Mint during this period. The coin’s surfaces are lustrous, and the toning gives it an added layer of depth, making it a standout piece for any collection.
The 1879-S Morgan Silver Dollar was part of a broader historical narrative that included the rise of the silver industry and the development of the U.S. economy in the late 19th century. The country was recovering from the Civil War, and the demand for currency to support industrialization and westward expansion was growing. The Morgan Dollar, with its iconic design and substantial silver content, became an integral part of the nation’s monetary system, circulating alongside other coins and paper currency. It was a vital means of exchange for the American people during a time of rapid growth and transformation.
As one of the most widely collected coins in American numismatics, the 1879-S Morgan Silver Dollar continues to captivate collectors around the world. Its design, history, and striking beauty make it an essential piece in any Morgan Dollar collection. The MS64 grade, combined with the toning, makes this particular coin even more desirable to collectors seeking a high-quality example of the series. Its strong strike, sharp details, and stunning visual appeal make it a true treasure for numismatists, and its historical significance only adds to its value.
The 1879-S Morgan Silver Dollar MS64 in Toning (A) is a coin that represents the best of both the Morgan Dollar series and the numismatic world as a whole. It is a beautiful, well-preserved example of U.S. coinage from the late 19th century, with a design that has stood the test of time. For collectors and investors alike, this coin is a prized possession, embodying the artistry, history, and enduring appeal of one of the most iconic coin series in American history.